England Women delivered a powerful performance in their final league match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, cruising to a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over New Zealand Women at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. The win allows England to carry significant momentum into the semi-finals, while the match marked the final One Day International appearance for New Zealand’s inspirational captain, Sophie Devine.
New Zealand’s Innings: The Collapse
Having won the toss and elected to bat first on what appeared to be a dry track, New Zealand got off to a decent start despite losing Suzie Bates early. A promising 68-run second-wicket partnership between Amelia Kerr (35 off 43 balls) and Georgia Plimmer (34 off 37 balls) set a solid platform, pushing the score to 89/1. However, the momentum was abruptly halted by a ruthless English bowling unit, triggering a dramatic collapse.
The White Ferns lost three quick wickets for just 12 runs, crumbling from 89/1 to 101/4. Linsey Smith, the left-arm orthodox spinner, was the chief destroyer, expertly exploiting the conditions. Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals, ensuring New Zealand never recovered. Skipper Sophie Devine played a resolute knock of 23 (35) in her farewell ODI, but once she departed with the score at 155, the tail offered minimal resistance.
New Zealand were eventually bundled out for a modest total of 168 runs in just 38.2 overs. England’s bowlers were disciplined and effective, with a trio of bowlers sharing the bulk of the wickets:
- Linsey Smith was the standout performer, finishing with exceptional figures of 3 wickets for 30 runs in 9.2 overs.
- All-rounder Nat Sciver-Brunt picked up 2 wickets for 31 runs.
- Off-spinner Alice Capsey also contributed with 2 wickets for 34 runs.
England’s Chase: Jones leads the charge
Chasing a sub-par target of 169, England’s opening pair of Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont signalled their intent for a swift finish. They laid a rock-solid foundation with a 75-run opening partnership that effectively ended New Zealand’s hopes. Tammy Beaumont, playing aggressively, scored a fluent 40 runs off just 36 balls, striking seven boundaries before being dismissed.
The true star of the chase, however, was wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones. She played a magnificent, composed, yet attacking innings, forming another strong partnership—an 83-run stand—with captain Heather Knight. Jones displayed brilliant control throughout, finding the boundary rope with ease and rotating the strike masterfully. Her knock was a testament to her excellent form and ability to anchor a chase.
Amy Jones remained unbeaten on a sensational 86 runs off 92 balls, decorated with 11 crisp fours and one six. She ensured there were no further hiccups, guiding her team across the finish line with immense authority. Captain Heather Knight played the supporting role to perfection, contributing a steady 33 runs off 40 balls.
England wrapped up the chase in a flash, reaching 172/2 in only 29.2 overs, securing the victory with a commanding 20.4 overs to spare. This dominant win is the ideal boost for the English side as they head into the knockout stage of the tournament.
Match Summary
| Team | Innings Score | Overs |
| New Zealand Women | 168 all out | 38.2 |
| England Women | 172/2 | 29.2 |
Result: England Women won by 8 wickets.
Player of the Match: Amy Jones (England Women) for her match-winning unbeaten 86 (92 balls).
